Hermengarde found it difficult to conceal her agitation as she listened to his narrative.
“And no doubt, sir, it is in consequence of your observations that my nephew has been restored to freedom?” she remarked at the first pause.
“Yes, Madam. As a result of my conversation with him, during which I believe no suspicion as to whom I was entered his mind, I have no hesitation in declaring that at present there is nothing in his Majesty’s state of health which would justify any measures of restriction.”
Hermengarde breathed hard, and directed a searching glance at Von Sigismark. But the old Count’s face wore the look she had learned to dread, the sanctimonious uprightness of the loyal servant, tempered by the courtier’s deference to the personage who held the station of aunt to the King.
She turned again to the physician, speaking in a voice which, do what she would, sounded dry and constrained—
“I rejoice to hear that so far our worst fears are not justified. Have you detected any symptoms which indicated that there might be danger in the future?”
“I cannot say I did, Madam. At present there is no trace of anything in his Majesty’s condition which might not be found in multitudes of persons who pass through life without ever incurring the suspicion of unsoundness. Of course, I have to bear in mind the constitutional taint which he has probably inherited, and which must always be a reason for care and watchfulness on the part of his friends. His Majesty has no doubt a highly nervous temperament. I will even go so far as to say that any very great stress of excitement, any great and sudden shock to the nerve centres, might produce derangement; but there is no indication of anything of that sort at present; and if his Majesty can be induced to use care and prudence it may never come at all.”
The Princess bent her eyes on the Chancellor with that strange expression which he, on his side, had come to regard with inward disquietude. He endeavoured to feign unconsciousness of it as he observed—
“I am sure, Herr Doctor, that the Princess and myself are under a deep obligation to you for so fully setting our fears at rest. I agree with you in hoping confidently that no such crisis as you refer to may ever arise. Should there be any occasion to fear it we shall in any case have the advantage of your advice and services.”
The physician bowed and rose to leave the room, and the Chancellor imitated his movement.